AT&T is your only choice among the big three if you're going to need to talk and surf the Internet at the same time. This is because it uses GSM network technology. This means, for example, you can look up directions to a location while confirming plans with someone on the phone.

AT&T has taken a beating in the past for its network quality. However, it has worked to improve its network and claims it currently offers the fastest 3G speeds for iPhone users.

I'd also recommend AT&T if you're a very light data user. It's the only carrier to offer a 200MB data plan for $15 per month. If you want more data, the 2GB plan costs a competitive $25 and the 4GB plan $45. All plans 4GB and above include the Mobile Hotspot feature.

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Voice calling plan prices are $39.99 for 450 minutes, $59.99 for 900 minutes and $69.99 for unlimited. AT&T does have an unlimited texting plan for $20. However, the other plans are pay-as-you go: 20 cents per text or 30 cents per picture/video text. That's a good choice if you only text occasionally.

Verizon

Verizon usually comes out on top when customers are surveyed nationally about quality of network coverage and reliability. If you're an average user, it's probably your best overall choice.

If you travel frequently with business or often take calls in elevators, there's a good chance Verizon will irritate you the least.

The carrier's lowest tier for data, 2GB, costs $30 per month for new customers, which is $5 more than AT&T. You'll pay $50 per month for the 4GB plan, which is again $5 more than AT&T.

Over 5GB, all the plans are less than the AT&T equivalent. In fact, the 10GB and 12GB plans are $25 less. That's substantial savings over AT&T if you need that much data.

Verizon also offers the Mobile Hotspot feature. However, it's included only on the 4GB, 7GB and 12GB plans.

Voice call plans are identical to AT&T, but Verizon has an edge if you're a midrange text user. Like AT&T, Verizon has a $20 unlimited texting plan. But you can also pay $5 per month for 250 texts or $10 for 500. With AT&T's pay-as-you-go texting, 250 texts would be around $50.

Kim Komando hosts the nation's largest talk radio show about consumer electronics, computers and the Internet. To learn more, visit Kim's website at http://www.komando.com.